By now we all know that cardio exercise is key in order to get fit and stay healthy.  Choosing what type of cardio exercise program to begin can be a bit daunting.  Not knowing how to begin, coupled with dealing with hectic daily lives, and the work that waits for us when we get home, leads many people to just give up without even really trying. 

Many people may not realize how simple a cardio workout can be.  Cardio can be just about any type of activity that raises your heart rate and gets your juices flowing.  From walking to rock climbing and everything in between, cardio is all around you.  In order to pick an activity that is best for you, and one you will actually stick with, ask yourself this simple question: what types of activities do you enjoy doing?  When you select a type of activity that you really like to partake in, you will be much more likely to stick with the program.

If you are an outdoors type of person, try walking, jogging, running, roller blading, biking, or hiking.  Get a friend to do these activities with you to help keep you motivated and keep you from getting bored.  If you like indoor activities, join an aerobics class, or run on a treadmill.  Try mixing up your routine so that you take part in several different activities during the course of the week.  By having a rotating schedule you will always be doing something different, which not only keeps you interested, it also works a wider variety of muscle groups.  This will then cause your body to build more muscle, while burning more calories.

Try not to focus too much on how to decide what cardio program you should begin.  If you enjoy dancing, fast pace dancing for just thirty minutes a day can do wonders for your entire body.  Consider joining a dance class at your local recreation center, or take dance lessons.  Activities such as swimming, rowing, and even jumping rope are all forms of cardio exercise.  Exercise equipment can also provide you with a great workout.  Try machines that really raise your heart rate such as step machines, and elliptical trainers.  Joining a gym provides you with many different pieces of equipment that you can alternate between either during each session or throughout the week.

Finally, do not forget about sports.  If you have a favorite sport, consider joining or starting a team.  This can be a great way to get moving and get your cardio.  The sport you choose should include a good deal of constant movement, with minimal bouts of time when you are standing still.  Great sports options include: football, basketball, tennis, racquetball, soccer, volleyball, and hockey (field or ice).  The key idea to remember is the need to get your body up and moving on a regular basis.  Once you have started a cardio exercise routine you will notice that you feel better, look better, and have a great deal more energy throughout your day.